Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Semi Final - England v Argentina - Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. - July 15, 2026 Argentina's Enzo Fernandez celebrates scoring their first goal with Lionel Messi REUTERS/Carlos Barria
The World Cup’s second semi-final delivered a thrilling spectacle as Argentina edged past England with a dramatic late surge, securing a place in Sunday’s final against Spain. The Albiceleste’s dominance in the dying minutes—orchestrated by Lionel Messi—left the Three Lions stunned and dreaming of a revenge against France in the third-place playoff.
Messi’s magic seals Argentina’s ticket to the final
The match began as a physical, tactical battle, with both teams prioritizing defensive resilience over attacking flair. Referee Ismail Elfath issued 19 fouls in the first half, while combined expected goals barely scraped past 0.07—a stark contrast to the high-octane football fans expect from a World Cup semi-final.
The turning point arrived after the break, as Argentina’s game plan shifted. Julian Alvarez blazed over from close range in the 47th minute, but it was the passing of Messi that set the stage for victory. Elliot Anderson’s reckless tackle on the Argentine captain highlighted England’s aggression, but Messi remained unfazed, dictating play with surgical precision.
A tale of two halves
England’s Anthony Gordon broke the deadlock in the 55th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error to slot past Emiliano Martinez. Yet, Argentina’s response was swift. Messi, though denied a goal for the ninth time in the tournament, turned provider with two pinpoint assists—first to Enzo Fernandez (85th) and then to Lautaro Martinez (90th+2)—sending the Albiceleste into Sunday’s showdown.
The Argentine maestro, at 39 years old, continues to defy expectations, carrying his team with a performance that blended creativity, vision, and sheer determination. Meanwhile, England’s hopes of a first World Cup final since 1966 were dashed, leaving manager Thomas Tuchel’s tactical adjustments to blame for their defensive fragility in the final stages.
France vs England in the third-place playoff
With their World Cup dreams over, England will face France in the consolation match—a clash that promises fireworks despite neither side’s enthusiasm. The rivalry between the two nations runs deep, spanning decades and multiple sports, making this encounter a must-watch for fans of competitive football.
This year’s semi-final clash between England and Argentina may be remembered for its intensity and Messi’s brilliance, but the road to the final was paved with grit, drama, and a late flurry of magic that only a World Cup can deliver.
